Answer :
Final answer:
The incumbency advantage in congressional elections is influenced by factors such as name recognition, voting records, media coverage, and financial support from interest groups. Incumbents also benefit from their ability to provide constituency services, which help them gain support from voters. These advantages discourage competent challengers from running against incumbents.
Explanation:
The incumbency advantage refers to the higher likelihood of incumbents winning reelection. Several factors contribute to this advantage and discourage challengers from running. First, incumbents have name recognition and voting records, which make them more likely to be interviewed by the media and receive financial support from interest groups. Additionally, incumbents benefit from the use of office perquisites, such as constituency services, which attract support from voters.